We chat with author Katherine Quinn about Stolen Midnights, which is the first in a new magical young adult romantasy duology where a palace darling and a thief join forces after he unwittingly steals a necklace with the power to change their world forever.
Hi, Katherine! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourself?
Hey everyone! Aside from writing, I live a pretty boring life, if I say so myself lol. I live in Texas, but dream of moving back to the east coast one day—I miss having seasons so much. When I’m not filling the role of ‘mom’, I prefer the elusive silence, which, in my house is basically an impossibility. Embroidery is my go to craft, and I get to stab something with a tiny needle (which is quite peaceful when I’m frustrated or having trouble with a plot hole). Aside from angry crafting, I will watch all the fantasy and murder mystery shows I can—often in one sitting because I’m too impatient to wait.
When did you first discover your love for writing and stories?
Since I was young I’ve journaled whenever I couldn’t express myself out loud. Writing became my safe haven, and eventually, my innermost secrets, hopes, and fears formed the basis for short stories. I didn’t have a safe space to communicate at that age, and these stories were an outlet—a way to share what I felt, but also a way to dream an impossible life only experienced on paper.
Quick lightning round! Tell us:
- The first book you ever remember reading: Any and ALL of the Nancy Drew books!
- The one that made you want to become an author: A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
- The one that you can’t stop thinking about: The Hunger Games. I wish I could read the trilogy for the first time again.
Your latest novel, Stolen Midnights, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Whimsical
Cryptic
Romantic
Timely
Banter (all the banter)
What can readers expect?
While Stolen Midnights is a romantasy, I hoped to shine a light on issues we currently face in our society. In a heavily patriarchal realm, Wren, a girl from the ruthless yet oppulant high society, and Damien, the sarcastic thief who upends her life, battle the greedy and powerful men who hold power—and some other magical entities! These two couldn’t be any more different, but they bring their shared experiences together and form a beautiful understanding, essentially helping each other grow. Recently, an early reader told me they remind them of the characters from Tangled, and now I can’t unsee it!
Where did the inspiration for Stolen Midnights come from?
The idea was entirely random. The magical ‘gifts’ came first, and I found myself envisioning a world where everyday, simple items held power (I mostly wanted a magical pen for myself that wrote by itself because I wouldn’t be required to move lol). The story shaped around this initial thought, and I began writing before I had an idea of the characters or the story. I typically enjoy allowing the story to tell me what it’s about. I like to be just as surprised as the reader!
Were there any moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?
I adored writing Damien’s POV! He’s so misunderstood as this supposed ‘hardened criminal’, but inside, he’s chaotic, funny, and good. I’d describe him as a hot mess, but those are the characters I’ve always enjoyed reading!
My favorite scene is the very end (iykyk)—I wanted to write the biggest “what just happened?” moment.
Did you face any challenges whilst writing? How did you overcome them?
I experienced writer’s block that lasted for a few months. The best advice I can give to writers is to set the story aside and take a break. For me, that break included a lot of binging tv shows and books! DM me to discuss K-dramas please!
What’s next for you?
There’s Stolen Midnight’s sequel, which I am thrilled to announce soon. Book one ends on a cliffhanger (be warned!).
In August, The Golden Huntress releases, which is a mixture of one of my favorite comfort movies, The Mummy, and the video game, Tomb Raider—I played all the games on my Playstation 1 (which makes me feel super old). It has magical treasure hunting, rivals-to-lovers, and a 1940s vibe that I love.
Lastly, what books are you looking forward to picking up this year?
So, so many! But I’m especially excited to get my hands on The Knave and the Moon by Rachel Gillig, and All Hail Chaos by Sarah Rees Brennan!
